Unite Rochester: Our divisions have shifted over the years

May 2, 2013

Jamal Smith

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Our divisions have shifted over the years

I recently listened to a presentation by a member of a local project called Unite Rochester. Their goal is to create conversation between the races of the Rochester area. I was asked though to contribute what might be missing from the conversation. So here are my thoughts.

Race relations are often addressed from the lenses of the ’60s and ’70s eras, about what the previous generations did and how that should effect social justice. However, I feel that this has changed massively in the last 30 years.

Prejudice is no longer an issue of black and white — in any context. It is now a cultural, generational and economic matter. While this can relate to race issues, it is not primarily driven by them.

The generations that came up in the last 20 years have a different view of race and prejudice than their predecessors. There are different parameters, determined more by where you’re from or what you do than what color you are.

If the conversation is going to continue, then it must adapt and equally include the views of the youth and the changing of the times. It’s not all about one generation or culture.

Jamal Smith works as a technical consultant and is involved in Rochester area interfaith groups. Read other perspectives on racial disparities at http://on.rocne.ws/12Scn5a.